An earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter...

MAJOR QUAKE.

December 16, 1989

- MANILA, PHILIPPINES — MAJOR QUAKE. An earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale shook the Mindanao and central Visayas island chain early today, officials said. Radio stations reported scattered damage and at least one death. The Philippine Institute of Vulcanology and Seismology said the quake, which lasted about 40 seconds, was felt throughout eastern Mindanao, the second-largest Philippine island, and as far north as Cebu, 220 miles away. Manila radio station DZXL said one boy was killed when his house collapsed in Bislig. DZXL, quoting stations in Mindanao, said eight houses collapsed in Bislig. Residents fled their homes for higher ground when the quake hit.